Matty Beniers Shines Bright as He Secures the Coveted Calder Trophy

Matty Beniers Claims Calder Trophy as NHL‘s Top Rookie

Introduction

Seattle Kraken center Matty Beniers has been awarded the prestigious Calder Trophy as the NHL‘s best rookie in the 2022-2023 season. The 20-year-old emerged as a standout performer, leading all first-year players with 57 points and 24 goals. Beniers’ contributions on both ends of the ice, combined with his impact on the Kraken’s playoff run, made him a deserving recipient of the award.

Impressive Rookie Season

Beniers immediately made an impact as the Kraken’s top-line center in his first full NHL campaign. His offensive prowess was evident, leading all rookies in points and goals. With 57 points, Beniers finished eight points ahead of Matias Maccelli of the Arizona Coyotes, solidifying himself as the standout rookie of the season. His 24 goals tied him with Wyatt Johnston of the Dallas Stars for the rookie lead, further cementing his offensive capabilities.

Furthermore, Beniers showcased his ability to thrive in even-strength situations by leading all rookies with 46 points. This statistic demonstrates his consistent play and effectiveness in crucial game moments. Beniers’ contributions were not limited to offense either. He played a key role in the Kraken’s success, controlling 52.7% of shots and 52.5% of expected goals while on the ice at five-on-five situations. His impact was evident, as Seattle outscored opponents 63-41 during his playing time at even strength.

Impactful Minutes on the Ice

Despite being just 20 years old, Beniers averaged the fourth most ice time per game among all Kraken forwards. His average ice time of 17:06 per contest showcased the trust and reliance that the team had in him. Beniers trailed only Yanni Gourde, Jaden Schwartz, and Alex Wennberg in terms of ice time, highlighting his importance to the team’s success.

Beniers’ impact on the ice was undeniable, with the Kraken outscoring opponents by a significant margin when he was on the ice at five-on-five. This not only emphasizes his offensive skills but also his ability to make a difference defensively and contribute to the team’s overall success. His minutes were impactful, and the Kraken flourished when he was on the ice.

Contributions Beyond Statistics

Beniers’ impact extends beyond just the statistics. He topped all rookies in goals above replacement (16) and wins above replacement (2.7), demonstrating his overall value to the team. These advanced metrics highlight his ability to produce and contribute in ways that may not be as apparent on the stat sheet. Beniers’ contributions were instrumental in the Kraken making the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, solidifying his importance to the team’s success.

Other Standout Rookie Performances

While Beniers ultimately claimed the Calder Trophy, it is important to recognize the impressive performances of the other finalists, Stuart Skinner of the Edmonton Oilers and Owen Power of the Buffalo Sabres. Skinner, at just 24 years old, effectively took over the starting goaltender role for the Oilers, showcasing his skills with a 29-14-5 record. His save percentage of .914, combined with his ability to save goals above expected and goals above average, made him a strong contender for the Calder Trophy.

Power, on the other hand, demonstrated his offensive capabilities as a defenseman, leading all first-year blue-liners with 31 assists and 35 points in 79 games. His ability to contribute on both ends of the ice, combined with his significant ice time per game, showcased his potential as a future star in the NHL.

Conclusion

Matty Beniers’ exceptional rookie season, characterized by his offensive prowess, defensive contributions, and overall impact on the Seattle Kraken’s success, made him a deserving recipient of the Calder Trophy. His ability to consistently put up points, lead rookies in various statistical categories, and contribute beyond the traditional statistics solidified his status as the NHL‘s top rookie in the 2022-2023 season. As Beniers continues to develop his skills and contribute to the growth of the Kraken, his future in the NHL looks incredibly promising.